By Andi Anderson
The Ohio Farm Transition Network (OFTN) is launching a statewide professional training series aimed at strengthening farm transition and succession planning across Ohio. The initiative is designed to help agricultural professionals work together more effectively while providing better guidance and support to farm families preparing for future ownership and management changes.
The one-day regional training sessions will bring together experts from different sectors of agriculture, including attorneys, accountants, lenders, financial advisors, insurance professionals, Extension educators, and other agricultural service providers. By encouraging collaboration among these groups, OFTN hopes to create a more consistent and effective approach to farm transition planning throughout the state.
The training programs will focus on several important topics related to farm succession and business continuity. Participants will receive practical information on transition strategies, legal business structures, tax planning considerations, financial management tools, and a lender’s perspective on transition planning. These subjects are essential for helping farm families make informed decisions and develop plans that support long-term success.
A key goal of the training series is to establish common terminology and best practices among professionals who regularly assist farm families. Improved coordination and communication among service providers can make the transition process smoother and more successful for agricultural businesses.
The initiative directly supports OFTN’s mission of promoting the future sustainability of Ohio agriculture. By improving access to reliable resources and professional expertise, the organization aims to help preserve farm legacies and strengthen rural communities across the state.
Training sessions will be conducted at multiple locations throughout Ohio. The schedule includes Young’s Dairy in Springfield on September 30, 2026; Bell Manor in Chillicothe on October 1, 2026; Putnam County Educational Service Center in Ottawa on October 12, 2026; Milestone Event Center in Norwalk on October 27, 2026; and Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center in Cambridge on October 29, 2026.
The training events are open to both OFTN members and nonmembers, providing valuable opportunities for professional development and networking. The program also fulfills one of the requirements for OFTN membership.
The Ohio Farm Transition Network acknowledged the support of several organizations that helped fund and launch the statewide initiative, including Ohio Farm Bureau, AgCredit, Farm Credit Mid-America, Nationwide, Ohio Corn & Wheat, Ohio Soybean Council, Ohio Department of Agriculture, USDA Farm Service Agency, and Ohio State University Extension.
Through these educational programs, agricultural professionals will gain the tools and knowledge needed to provide more dependable and coordinated support to farm families. By establishing a shared framework for transition planning, the initiative will help ensure that Ohio farms remain productive, resilient, and prepared for future generations.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Ohio, Education